SURAT: The gates of Surat Municipal Corporation, Mughalsara became the site of a unique demonstration earlier today, with the Akhil Bhartiya Safai Mazdoor Sangh leading the charge against the prevailing contract employment system. The union members orchestrated a symbolic 'Ramdhun' prayer, a harmonious appeal to the authorities, urging them to rethink their stance on employee matters.
The Class IV Employees Union, which represents the lowest rung of the municipal staff, was at the forefront of this protest. This event was not merely about challenging the contractual system. It was also a call for attention to multiple unresolved demands of these workers. A group from the union even presented a memorandum listing their longstanding demands and urging timely action.
At the heart of the agitation is a call for job permanency. The President of the All India Safai Mazdoor Sangh stated, "Employees who have dedicated years to the corporation deserve permanent positions, and the contract system needs to be done away with." He also highlighted the recent introduction of the punching system for attendance, which they want to be revoked.
Furthermore, the union emphasized that families of workers who succumbed to COVID-19 haven't received their rightful financial compensation. "The corporation has withheld the assistance amount, which needs to be paid immediately," he added. Another key demand is job provision for a family member of those employees who have taken voluntary retirement.
Despite these pressing demands, the municipal authorities appear unmoved. The union's peaceful musical protest through the Ramdhun prayer aims to strike a chord with the authorities, hoping they will reconsider the plight of the Class IV employees.
